A masked robber escaped with cash and cigarettes after threatening staff in an armed robbery at a shop in Horley.

The raider, his face covered by a balaclava, struck at the Premier Foodwise Store in Lee Street last Thursday (June 7).

He walked into the store shortly after 2pm and threatened a member of staff with what police believe was a firearm.

He then reached over the till and swiped cash and cigarettes, which he put into a bag, before leaving the store.

A Surrey Police spokesman said once outside, the robber turned left, and was last seen on foot in Horley Row, running towards the A217 carrying an orange plastic bag.

Police cordoned off the shop and carried out a search of the surrounding area with help from the Surrey Police helicopter.

Officers carried out house-to-house enquiries and Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) forensically examined the location.

The spokesman said : “At this stage it is too early to estimate the approximate value or number of cigarettes which were taken.”

Detective Inspector Antony Archibald, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a serious and deeply concerning incident where an innocent member of staff has been threatened by a man with a suspected firearm.”

Det Insp Archibald said: “Fortunately the member of staff was not injured during the robbery, but he has understandably been left very shaken by what must have been a terrifying experience.

“The offence took place in broad daylight in a busy area close to other shops and homes so I feel certain that someone must have seen this offence taking place, or seen or heard something out of the ordinary.

“Serious offences of this nature are rare in Surrey and I can assure Horley residents that we are doing everything possible to bring this desperate offender to justice.”

The robber was described as white, slim, aged in his late teens or early 20s, and was wearing a dark balaclava, a black waterproof coat with the hood pulled up, and blue jeans.

Anyone who witnessed the robbery or has information should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference P12161684, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Police arrested a 22-year-old man at an address in Horley last Friday (June 8) at about 1am on suspicion of robbery.

The man is currently in police custody while the investigation continues.